Character In Action

The Washington press corps doesn't like Howard Dean.

I've already pointed that out today. No need to do so again.

Their charge is that, since he learns, and grows, and adjusts his thinking in reaction to new facts, that he has no character.

But you only learn when you change your mind.

Anyway, there's another, better definition of character than how well you play "gotcha" with George Stephanopoulos.

The test of character is whether you're always in it for yourself, only with those who do just as you do, or want to do. When the price of your help is that others submit to your will, that is not character.

This Christmas, let's all join Gov. Dean and show some character. Most of us, like him, were not in favor of this war. We saw it as easy to win, but hard to hold, as it has proven to be. We pointed out that Saddam Hussein had nothing to do with September 11, that the case he had WMDs was not proven, that the sanctions had already degraded his military, etc. etc. etc.

Enough.

But right now our troops are there. They are caught in the crossfire. They are on the firing line. They need our love, our support, our help.

As the Governor noted in a letter sent to supporters today, we can help. Just click here to get them a "Christmas present," a little care package delivered to where they are. No photo ops, no fake turkeys, just a little something, anonymously, to show you care, and that you hope they come home safe very soon.

And there's another way to help. For those who are fortunate enough to get leave, Bush is dumping them in either Germany or one of three U.S. cities, with no obvious way home. Thanks to Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger of Maryland, you can donate your frequent flyer miles to helping them get the rest of the way home, free. Just click here.

I did not support the war. But I support the troops. And you should too. Not just with words, but with action.

From the action campaign, and the candidate with character.